Buyers and Sellers ever Speak by Phone Anymore?

I find your thread to be one of the most interesting ever. Had around 65 transactions here and only conversed by phone 2 or 3 times. However, there are other philes that I've spoken to by phone that were not involved in a transaction with me. If your feedback is good and the other member has good feedback it really isn't a necessity to converse by phone during a transaction or even on a fact-finding mission. Frankly, I prefer not to speak to the other person and thereby keep personalities out of it. Personality can get in the way of business in my opinion. In other words let's keep it "just business."

I do agree that not speaking by phone is rather impersonal. But for me the most important aspect of this is a successful purchase or sale. And by successful I mean, you get what you paid for and it works as advertised, or you sell what you set out to sell and have a satisfied buyer. If you accomplish these goals, it's a win/win. Now I'll admit that one of the only fellows I ever spoke with during a transaction turned out to be a great guy and actually called me up long after our transaction to discuss audio. He was very likable. In fact we may have become friends if he had lived closer to my city.

So by keeping transactions here impersonal and not conversing on the phone, it's possible for someone to miss out on a good relationship with another person that has common interests. I will acknowledge that.

On the flip side, there are some quirky, and odd people in this hobby that I've spoken to by phone (that did not turn into a transaction) who I'd never want to meet in person.

I did break out of the mold just recently however. I not only spoke to a buyer by phone, but actually went to his home to deliver speakers. He seemed to be a good guy too.

Phone calls make the transaction more satisfying on an emotional level. I do prefer it but don't go out of my way to make it happen.
My last couple of transactions have had personal interaction. I made a trade with a local Agon member and he came over to pick up an amp. We sat and listened for a while, very pleasant. With the most recent transaction I called the seller but he was out. I had a nice conversation with his wife. She was gracious and although I never spoke to the seller, I was even more reassured after speaking to his wife.

We all know how vague email can be- sometimes there is no substitute for human voice when people are trying to reassure one another of their honesty or sincerity.

So I do speak by phone if it makes the buyer more comfortable. And it's frequently a great experience.

I was called by a prospective buyer form Switzerland this winter. We talked for about 4 hours in two sessions. Although we did not have a transaction we had an enjoyable time. I have met some interesting audiophiles on Audiogon.

I certainly find it reassuring to speak with someone when either buying or selling important items. (Are they all) It's surprising to me that some times others don't feel the same. I think language differences play a part sometimes. To each their own.